Chinese medicine techniques
acupuncture
Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique where thin, solid needles are inserted into the skin at specific points along pathways called meridians. Meridians are pathways along the body that carry qi (what TCM defines as “life force” or “material energy”). Specific points along these meridians can be used to stimulate or sedate physiological reactions within the body. There have been extensive scientific studies conducted on acupuncture that show its efficacy for pain based conditions, especially for back and neck pain, and headache. However, research is only beginning to understand how acupuncture can be helpful for various health conditions.
cupping
Cupping is a practice used in traditional medicine in several parts of the world, including China and the Middle East. In this office, it involves creating suction on the skin using a glass cups. Negative pressure is created in the cup by applying a flame to the cup to remove oxygen before placing it on the skin. Temporary bruising or marks on the skin are normal, but will fade typically within 10 days. The philosophy behind cupping is that cupping will break up the blockage of Qi, vital fluids, lymph, phlegm, and/or blood as their blockage is the causation of disease.
Gua Sha
Gua sha is a natural, alternative therapy that involves scraping your skin with a smooth-edged instrument known as a gua massage tool. After applying oil to the skin, I will use this tool to perform short and long strokes on the skin so as to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue. Gua sha is intended to address stagnant Qi in the body that is believed to be responsible for inflammation. Inflammation is the underlying cause of several conditions associated with chronic pain. Rubbing the skin’s surface is thought to help break up this energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.